Did you know that having a healthy mouth also affects the rest of your physical health? If you don't take the necessary time every day to keep your mouth clean and your smile beautiful, it could actually make you sick. But don't worry! Here are some simple and easy steps you can take to ensure that you keep your mouth happy and healthy ' for life!



Step 1: Brush Twice Daily!

It might sound trite, but if you repeat this as a mantra and actually do it, you'll stand a much better chance against cavity-causing bacteria. Brush for at least two minutes each time ' try singing 'Happy Birthday' to yourself two or three times to get the timing right.

Step 2: Floss, floss, floss.

How many times have you gone to the dentist, dreading the awful question: 'so, have you been flossing regularly?' Here's the thing: flossing removes food particles that get stuck between your teeth, and over time, these essentially start to rot causing cavities in your mouth. Floss before you brush ' and who knows, you might actually look forward to your next dentist's visit!

Step 3: Use the Correct Toothbrush & Toothpaste

You need a toothbrush that will allow you to brush your teeth and your tongue without agitating your gums. Use a toothbrush with medium or soft, rounded bristles, and use a brush shape that will most easily allow you to reach those tough areas at the back. Combine it with a toothpaste that contains fluoride.

These next few tips are things that you might not be able to do on a daily basis but should still be aware of, as well as some lifestyle tips to help you keep your mouth healthy and happy. Remember, dental health is an everyday task ' being aware of what you put in your mouth is just as important as making sure you brush regularly.

Step 4: Visit Your Dentist

You absolutely must visit your dentist twice a year. As much as you may not enjoy those trips, dentists are professionals who are trained to check for oral disease and diagnose and correct minor mouth issues before they become a larger problem. Also, regular dental check-ups are preventative: that means you'll be less likely to have cavities or painful dental issues down the road if you take the time to visit your dentist on a regular basis.

Step 5: More Calcium!

Do you drink milk every day? How do you feel about things like cheese, yogurt, and green vegetables? These are easily acquired foods that not only taste good, but also can help to increase your calcium intake. The more calcium you ingest, the healthier your mouth will be. Why? Calcium is a key component in the enamel on your teeth, and the more calcium you have, the stronger and healthier your teeth will be! There are many fruits and vegetables that contain calcium, so you don't need to stick to dairy products if you're concerned about the fat content. Of course, there are also many fantastic low-fat and lactose-free products available these days to help health-conscious individuals get all the calcium they need for their teeth, while also keeping a close watch on their physical health.

Step 6: Reduce Caffeine, Alcohol, and Soda

The problem with caffeine and alcohol is that beverages which contain these elements may introduce too much phosphorous into your body, which reduces your calcium levels. And if you're getting more calcium but still drinking too much coffee, you're basically negating any of the benefits you'd hoped to get from the calcium. In moderation, caffeine and alcohol shouldn't present a problem. The same is true for soda, as it's high in sugar and corn syrup which can really do a number on your teeth if you don't brush regularly.

Just follow these 6 simple steps, and you'll be on your way to a happier and healthier mouth in no time!